Karnataka CM D K Shivakumar launches SCOUT programme and debates Bidadi township project

Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar inaugurated the SCOUT‑2.0 (Scholars for Outstanding Undergraduate Talent) programme, a partnership between the state Higher Education Department and the British Council. The scheme will send 30 meritorious undergraduates abroad to the United Kingdom from 27 June to 11 July and Shivakumar called for its extension beyond the initial three‑year term to reach rural students across the state.

The minister also said that decisions on expanding Karnataka’s cabinet, which currently has 20 vacant ministerial posts out of a sanctioned strength of 34, lie with the Congress high command. He acknowledged pressure from regional leaders and community groups to include additional members, including MLC Salim Ahmed.

In a separate development, Shivakumar responded to Union Minister H D Kumaraswamy’s challenge over the controversial Bidadi Township Project. He invited Kumaraswamy and five of his representatives to discuss the project at the Vidhana Soudha on 26 June, while Kumaraswamy asked that the meeting be moved to Bidadi or Bhairamangala so that farmers and other local stakeholders could participate.

Shivakumar also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to making Bengaluru a vibrant, future‑ready city, citing consultations with industry leaders such as Biocon founder Kiran Mazumdar‑Shaw and outlining plans to improve infrastructure, governance and quality of life.